Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern condos and apartments do not have built-in air conditioning units. Many apartments and condos with air conditioning units are outfitted with floor-to-ceiling windows, that offer stunning views but also too much heat and sunlight.
If your building has ductwork, then a central AC is a good option. However, if it doesn’t however, the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now welcoming ductless mini-splits.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and cost-effective option to cool a condominium without the need for ductwork. They work by removing warm air from a space and replacing it with cooler air, which makes them a fantastic choice for those on a tight budget or for older homes that do not have ductwork. There are some disadvantages that should be considered prior to buying.
Window ACs can only cool a single room which is why they aren’t suitable for homes with a larger area. It’s also essential to select models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. Additionally, they’re a security risk, as windows can be easily removed and give easy access to your house.
It is possible to install accordions, or wood, to block out the extra space around the window. The majority of window units come with an installation kit for windows that you can use to install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and then attaching the sleeve to the exterior of the frame. For larger models that have larger BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide on rails, and the sleeve is attached to the frame with brackets.
To determine the amount of unit you’ll require to purchase, multiply the square footage by the number BTUs needed to cool the room comfortably. To maximize efficiency, consider whether your room gets plenty of sunlight or is on the upper floors. A larger unit is more expensive, but it could save you money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts suggest purchasing a central AC to provide an investment that will last for a long time. Although the initial cost is more expensive, it will pay off over the years with lower monthly utility bills and a longer life span than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling systems that work like space heaters. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and a tube, or mini-duct, will run out an opening to vent heat and CO2 (not to confuse with the toxic gas CO2). The units can be moved from rooms and are typically sized based on their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. For the best results, the unit should be designed to suit the intended space, as oversized units won’t offer adequate cooling and may be more prone to wear down than.
These units are used mostly in apartment buildings or homes that don’t have ducting systems and where the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. By installing a portable AC unit in one or more of your rooms, you will be able to reduce the burden on your central system and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The best portable units also include a dehumidifier feature to cut down on humidity. This is another common reason for hot spots and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should also have washable filters that can be cleaned to maintain their efficiency and remote controls for effortless operation. Find ENERGY STAR-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to save money and electricity when compared with non-certified units.
If you decide to go the portable route it’s crucial to choose a dual-hose model instead of one-hose options. Dual-hose models allow air from outside to be drawn into the condenser coils that are hot and then blown out via the other hose. This greatly increases the efficiency of the unit, and it helps to minimize the noise generated by the process. It may cost more to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it can be worth the cost in terms of savings and ease of use.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, often referred to as mini-splits, are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They comprise an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units which are connected by thin piping that runs like electrical wires through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems make a great option for condos as they can be used in areas where traditional HVAC ducts are not possible. They are the ideal cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments, as homeowners do not want to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system, air is cooled by the indoor unit when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubing from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than other models and allows you to cool your space without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems come with heating capabilities, too, so you can enjoy all year round peace and comfort.
The ductless system is ideal for many areas like garages, sunrooms and bedrooms. They can also increase the comfort of older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that do not have ductwork. This kind of system can also be utilized in multifamily homes since it can easily be adapted to different occupancy patterns.
In addition the ductless system can be much more energy efficient than conventional systems, as it does not need to push air over long distances. It also helps reduce your electric bills. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, saving on the installation cost and space.
Ductless systems are a fantastic option to replace the obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings because they provide superior cooling performance and personalized temperature control. They can improve the air quality of your apartment, too by utilizing a powerful filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This helps you avoid asthma and allergies while also keeping your space cool throughout the year. If you’re ready to learn more about the benefits of installing a ductless system into your home, call us today! Our technicians are available to assist you. We will assess your needs and help choose the best air conditioning solution for your specific situation.